The categoric approach requires legal and social remedies that are distinct from those directed toward other forms of family violence. Supporters of this approach argue that it accounts for the unique characteristics of older persons and the particular types of victimization and other social experiences to which they are exposed. In contrast, critics argue that categoric interventions both promote ageist viewpoints and create an artificial split in the remedies and systems available to meet similar needs. The available research supports the view that many social service professionals, policymakers, and others hold negative views of older persons and aging. Therefore, the specialized programs unintentionally reinforce these attitudes. Thus, the real solution to elder abuse is to spread gerontological knowledge throughout the legal and social service system rather than to focus on specialized programs. 82 references.